Total joint arthroplasty is one of the most common procedures performed in orthopaedic surgery. Over 600,000 total hip and total knee replacements are performed in the United States each year. At our 550 bed tertiary care facility, 437 total knee arthroplasties were performed in 2010 and 426 in 2011. Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolyic synthetic derivative of aminocaproic acid used to prevent hemorrhage in patients undergoing surgical procedures. Several studies show decreased blood loss in patients receiving both intravenous and topical tranexamic acid. Beginning in 2011, our surgeons began using topical tranexamic acid in an irrigation solution of 3 grams in 100 mL of normal saline after implant placement and prior to closure of the incision. Our study is a retrospective review comparing patients receiving total knee arthroplasties before and after the institution of tranexamic acid. The purpose of our study was to assess estimated perioperative blood loss, determining the cost effectiveness of using tranexamic acid while comparing adverse effects of using topical tranexamic acid in total knee arthroplasty. Our study includes 683 primary total knees, 373 that received did not receive topical tranexamic acid and 310 that did, from January 1, 2010 to October 31, 2011. There were no demographic differences between the 2 groups. Topical tranexamic acid significantly (p<0.0001) decreased blood loss in patients receiving primary total knee arthroplasties. There were no differences between groups in thromboembolic events or joint infections. Tranexamic acid significantly (p<0.0001) decreased both blood bank cost and total cost of stay resulting in nearly $1,500 savings per patient to our institution

Blood loss during the perioperative period of total joint arthroplasty has been well described in the literature. Despite numerous advances, allogeneic transfusion rates are still reported as high as 50%. Often the literature focuses on one area or mechanism of blood loss prevention but this article focuses on a multimodal approach to blood loss prevention including preoperative optimization, intraoperative technique, and postoperative management. Hemoglobin drop and transfusion rates were retrospectively reviewed for 134 control patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in three groups. Group 1 included low risk patients (Hb >14 g/dl), Group 2 included intermediate risk patients (Hb 13-14 g/dl) utilizing reinfusion drain and preoperative autologous blood donation, and Group 3 included high risk (Hgb <13) patients treated with preoperative erythropoietin (EPO). These controls were then compared to two groups of patients undergoing minimally invasive total knee arthroplasty (MIS TKA). Group 4 included 20 consecutive patients undergoing MIS TKA with intraoperative injection of lidocaine and epinephrine along the arthrotomy site. Group 5 included 22 consecutive patients treated with similar technique plus the additional intraoperative use of a bipolar sealer device. The combined utilization of MIS TKA, epinephrine, and bipolar sealer minimized hemoglobin drop (2.74 (Std Dev 0.77) vs 3.29 (SD 1.05) g/dl, p= 0.01) and total blood transfusions (0.05 (SD 0.21) vs 0.86 (SD 0.63) units, p< 0.01) compared with the traditional TKA approach for high risk patients using reinfusion drain and preoperative autologous donation (Group 2). This series demonstrates how a busy knee practice minimizes hemoglobin drop and transfusion requirements with preoperative optimization of high risk patients utilizing EPO, minimally invasive technique, intraoperative hemostasis obtained with epinephering injection, use of a bipolar sealer, and postoperative management with a reinfusion drain.

Background. The reductions of perioperative blood loss and inflammatory response are important in total knee arthroplasty. Tranexamic acid reduced blood loss and the inflammatory response in several studies. However, the effect of epinephrine administration plus tranexamic acid has not been intensively investigated, to our knowledge. In this study, we evaluated whether the combined administration of low-dose epinephrine plus tranexamic acid reduced perioperative blood loss or inflammatory response further compared with tranexamic acid alone. Methods. This randomized placebo-controlled trial consisted of 179 consecutive patients who underwent primary total knee arthroplasty. Patients were randomized into 3 interventions: Group IV received intravenous low-dose epinephrine plus tranexamic acid, Group TP received topical diluted epinephrine plus tranexamic acid, and Group CT received tranexamic acid alone. The primary outcome was perioperative blood loss on postoperative day 1. Secondary outcomes included perioperative blood loss on postoperative day 3, coagulation and fibrinolysis parameters (measured by thromboelastography), inflammatory cytokine levels, transfusion values (rate and volume), thromboembolic complications, length of hospital stay, wound score, range of motion, and Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score. Results. The mean calculated total blood loss (and standard deviation) in Group IV was 348.1 ± 158.2 mL on postoperative day 1 and 458.0 ± 183.4 mL on postoperative day 3, which were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) compared with Group TP at 420.5 ± 188.4 mL on postoperative day 1 and 531.1 ± 231.4 mL on postoperative day 3 and Group CT at 520.4 ± 228.4 mL on postoperative day 1 and 633.7 ± 237.3 mL on postoperative day 3. Intravenous low-dose epinephrine exhibited a net anti-inflammatory activity in total knee arthroplasty and did not induce an obvious hypercoagulable status. Transfusion values were significantly (p=0.023 and 0.032) reduced in Group IV, but no significant differences were observed in the incidence of thromboembolic complications, wound score, range of motion, and HSS score among the 3 groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions. The combined administration of low-dose epinephrine and tranexamic acid demonstrated an increased effect in reducing perioperative blood loss and the inflammatory response compared with tranexamic acid alone, with no apparent increased incidence of thromboembolic and other complications

Introduction. Bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) results in substantial perioperative blood loss with increased morbidity. Tranexamic acid (TXA) administration in either intravenous or topical form has been found to be effective in reducing perioperative blood loss. The objective of the present study was to compare the efficacy of topical versus intravenous TXA in reducing perioperative blood loss. Methods. Prospective, randomized, double-blinded clinical trial was carried out on 70 patients undergoing bilateral TKA, who were divided into two groups. Group I received equivalent dose of TXA intravenously 30 minutes prior to deflation of tourniquet of first knee and another dose repeated after 2 hours. Group 2 received topical TXA in the dose of 15mg/kg dissolved in100 ml of normal saline which was applied into the joint for 10 minutes at the end of implant insertion. Outcome measures were total blood loss as (calculated from the difference between preoperative and postoperative day3 haemoglobin (Hb) or Hb prior to transfusion), total drain output and amount of blood transfusion. Results. Perioperative blood loss in group 2 (561.42 ± 248.99) was reduced significantly as compared to group 1 (1037.04 ±506.650) with a p-value of <0.001. The postoperative Hb in group 2 (10.30± 1.11) was also significantly higher as compared to group 1(9.66±1.47) with a p-value of <0.001. Total drain output in group 2 (269.14± 120.98) was significantly reduced as compared to group 1(574.14± 269.03) with a p-value of <0.001. There were no reports of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism in either group. Conclusion. Topical application of tranexamic acid significantly decreases the blood loss in bilateral total knee arthroplasty as compared to intravenous administration, with a mean reduction by about 45% with respect to inravenous group

Introduction. Hemophilia arthropathy often occurs in the ankle, knee and elbow. In contrast, hemophilic arthropathy in the hip is rare. We report short-term results of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with hemophilia. Method. Four primary THAs performed in four hemophilic patients from 2007 to 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. Two patients underwent cementless THA, and two patients had cemented THA. All patients had hemophilia A, and clotting factor replacement was performed perioperatively. Blood loss, surgery duration, complications, pre- and post-operative range of motion, and the pre- and post-operative Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score were assessed. Results. Mean age at time of surgery was 54.8 years (range 33–74 years). Mean duration of follow-up was 29.8 months (range 3–60 months). Mean perioperative blood loss was 798 ml (range 620–953 ml). No infection occurred. Mean flexion improved from 63.8° preoperatively (range 30–95°) to 83.8° postoperatively (range 60–95°). Mean abduction improved from 8.8° preoperatively (range 0–20°) to 25° postoperatively (range 10–40°). The mean JOA score improved from 47.5 preoperatively (range 35–57) to 87.5 postoperatively (range 67–100). Conclusion. THAs in patients with hemophilia can be successful and result in pain relief and functional improvement, as long as clotting factor replacement is performed adequately

Perioperative blood conservation remains an important topic today in order to reduce complications, improve function, and facilitate recovery after a total knee replacement (TKR). Studies have shown that the degree of postoperative anemia is related to an increase in complications. A greater blood loss and need for transfusion is associated with a higher risk of infection, a slower recovery process, increased morbidity to patients, as well as an increased cost to the health care system. Typical blood loss estimates range from 800cc to over 1700cc, when accounting not only for intraoperative but postoperative blood loss. Several strategies have been developed to help mitigate the risk of perioperative blood loss and need for subsequent transfusion. Firstly, preoperative measures such as vitamin and mineral supplementation can ensure the starting hemoglobin and red cell count are maximised. Additionally, erythropoietin can be helpful in refractory cases of preoperative anemia. Preoperative autologous blood donation was used extensively in the past, but has fallen out of favor due to its inefficiency and cost. Intraoperatively, measures such as the use of a tourniquet, meticulous technique, and expeditious surgery can help reduce blood loss. The most effective method, however, has been the use of tranexamic acid (TXA). TXA, an antifibrinolytic compound, has been extremely effective at reducing perioperative blood loss without increasing the risk of thromboembolic events. TXA can be used topically or intravenously. Other methods that can reduce intraoperative blood loss include the use of fibrin sealants, applied to the soft tissues and bony surfaces around the knee. Postoperatively, the avoidance of wound drains is associated with a higher blood count and reduced transfusion risk. Alternatively, drainage reinfusion systems can be used to raise the postoperative blood count, particularly in cases of bilateral TKR

The surgical treatment of bone tumours can result in large perioperative blood loss due to their large sizes and hypervascularity. Preoperative embolisation has been successfully used to downgrade vascularity, thus reducing perioperative blood loss and its associated complications. Prior to embolization era, blood loss as high as 18,500mL have been reported peri-opratively. Twenty-six patients with a variety of bone tumours (average size 10.5×7.5×5.5cm), who underwent pre-operative embolisation between 2005 and 2009, were retrospectively studied. The group comprised of 17 females and 9 males. Their mean age was 38 years old. All patients underwent surgical resection within 48 hours of embolization. Mean blood loss was 796mL and required on average 1.1units of blood. We experienced no complications. Pre-operative arterial embolisation of large, richly vascular bone tumours in anatomically difficult positions, is a safe and effective method of downstaging vascularity and reducing blood loss

Introduction. Simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty is now widely accepted for their economically and functionally advantages than staged total hip arthroplasty. But there is concerning higher demands of blood transfusion than unilateral procedure. Multiple studies suggest that tranexiamic acid (TXA) reduces perioperative blood loss. However there is no report for simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty in these studies. Hypothesis. TXA reduces significant blood loss after bilateral total hip arthroplasty. Patients and methods. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 12 patients who did not use TXA, and 12 patients who had used TXA. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of demographics and preoperative Hb. 1g of TXA was administered just before first skin incision and 1g was administered 6 hours after surgery. Intra operative blood loss, the amount of drainage for the first operative day and perioperative Hb changes were recorded. Results. TXA administered groups were significant lower intra operative blood loss (mean 1022 ml vs 623 mL) and drainage amount (mean 1930 mL vs 721 mL) and higher Hb levels postoperative 5 days. Conclusion. TXA significantly reduced perioperative blood loss for simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty

Perioperative blood conservation remains an important topic today in order to reduce complications, improve function, and facilitate recovery after a total knee replacement (TKR). Studies have shown that the degree of postoperative anemia is related to an increase in complications. A greater blood loss and need for transfusion is associated with a higher risk of infection, a slower recovery process, increased morbidity to patients, as well as an increased cost to the healthcare system. Typical blood loss estimates range from 800cc to over 1700cc, when accounting not only for intraoperative but postoperative blood loss. Several strategies have been developed to help mitigate the risk of perioperative blood loss and need for subsequent transfusion. Firstly, preoperative measures such as vitamin and mineral supplementation can ensure the starting hemoglobin and red cell count are maximised. Additionally, erythropoietin can be helpful in refractory cases of preoperative anemia. Preoperative autologous blood donation was used extensively in the past, but has fallen out of favor due to its inefficiency and cost. Intraoperatively, measures such as the use of a tourniquet, meticulous technique, and expeditious surgery can help reduce blood loss. The most effective method, however, has been the use of tranexamic acid (TXA). TXA, an antifibrinolytic compound, has been extremely effective at reducing perioperative blood loss without increasing the risk of thromboembolic events. TXA can be used topically or intravenously. Other methods that can reduce intraoperative blood loss include the use of fibrin sealants, applied to the soft tissues and bony surfaces around the knee. Postoperatively, the avoidance of wound drains is associated with a higher blood count and reduced transfusion risk. Alternatively, drainage reinfusion systems can be used to raise the postoperative blood count, particularly in cases of bilateral TKR

Background. Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolytic drug that has been shown to successfully reduce postoperative blood loss in total knee and hip arthroplasty. However, the efficacy of TXA following total shoulder arthroplasty has not been reported. Purpose. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the impact of intravenous TXA on postoperative blood loss and transfusion rates in total shoulder reconstruction. Methods. Between July and December 2014, 50 patients scheduled for primary total shoulder arthroplasty of the shoulder were included in this blinded, randomized study. Patients received either 1000mg intravenous TXA within thirty minutes before skin incision and another 1000mg intravenously administered TXA during wound closure (group 1), or a placebo (group 2). The perioperative blood loss and the rate of blood transfusions were analyzed. Results. Early postoperative blood loss was 80.0±105.5ml in the TXA group (group 1), and 202.1±195.8ml in the placebo group (group 2). The administration of blood products was not necessary during the study period. Conclusion. The administration of intravenous tranexamic acid significantly reduced the postoperative blood loss following total shoulder arthroplasty

Background. It is unclear whether the approach of hemiarthroplasty influence the outcomes in elderly patients with displaced femoral neck fractures. We conducted a randomized controlled trial to compare the direct lateral approach (DL approach) and posterolateral approach (PL approach) for hemiarthroplasty. Methods. This study included patients presenting to our hospital with displaced femoral neck fractures (Garden stage 3 or 4) from August 2010 to August 2011. 59 patients agreed the prospective study. They were randomized between the hemiarthroplasty using DL approach or PL approach. We evaluated and compared the operative time, perioperative blood loss, peri- and post-operative complications, and 5-year survival rates. Results. Thirty-two patients underwent the hemiarthroplasty using DL approach and 27 patients underwent hemiarthroplasty using PL approach. The mean operative time was 91 min in DL group and 77 min in PL group. A significant difference was observed for the mean operative times(p<0.005). The bleeding during surgery was 194 g in DL group and 180 g in PL group. The postoperative blood loss was 268 g in DL group and 264 g in PL group, no significant difference was observed postoperatively. Perioperative and postoperative complications were observed in 8 patients of DL group and 5 patients of the PL group. In DL group, perioperative complications included fracture in 1 patient, whereas postoperative complications included deep vein thrombosis in 7 patients. In PL group, postoperative complications included deep vein thrombosis in 3 patients, deep infection in 1 patient and subluxation of the outerhead in 1 patient. Two patients of DL group and 3patients of PL group suffered second hip fractures within the follow-up period, and 1 patient of PL group suffered periprosthetic fracture and treated conservatively. We identified 28 patients as dead in the follow-up period. The 5-year survival rate of DL group was 51.3% and that of PL group was 44.2%; there were not significantly different between the groups (log-rank test, p = 0.324). Conclusion. The mean operative time was significantly longer in DL groups, but peri- and post-operative complications and the surbival rate were not significantly different between the two groups. Surgical approach might not affect the outcomes of hemiarthroplasty in patients with femoral neck fractures

The subvastus approach has potential early advantages over the medial parapatellar approach because it avoids disruption of the quadriceps tendon. We present a systematic review and meta-analysis of the functional outcomes and complications associated with these two approaches. Following an extensive search of prospective trials published in any language before 1st August 2014, studies were screened in duplicate according to pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Sixteen randomised controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis comprising of 1,711 total knee replacements. Knee society score and range of movement were significantly superior in the subvastus group at early and one-year follow up. The subvastus approach was also associated with a statistically significant reduction in the requirement for intraoperative lateral release, perioperative blood loss, visual analogue score for pain on day 1 post operatively, and the number of days to achieve active straight leg raising. Both tourniquet time and total operative time were increased for the subvastus approach. There was no statistically significant difference in complications such as stiffness requiring MUA, superficial and deep infection and deep vein thrombosis. The subvastus approach confers a functional advantage over the medial parapatellar approach to the knee which lasts for a minimum of one year postoperatively

Blood loss following total hip replacement is a major contributor to increase morbidity and length of stay. Various techniques have been described to reduce its occurrence. We now follow a set protocol, combining rivaroxaban for thrombo-prophylaxis and tranexamic acid to reduce immediate postoperative bleeding. Patients and methods:. Using data collected prospectively we looked at 2 groups of consecutive patients undergoing THR. The protocol was the only factor changed during the period studied. Initially we used subcutaneous dalteparin injections and continued use of aspirin in peri-operative period following total hip replacements (Group I–317 patients). A new protocol was introduced involving rivaroxaban for thrombo-prophylaxis with its first dose at least 8 hours from skin closure and stopping aspirin at least 7 days before operation. In addition tranexamic acid was given in a dose of 500 mg (or 1 gm in obese patients) intravenously just prior to incision (Group II–348 patients). We compared these two groups regards Hb drop at 24 hours and blood transfusion requirement. Results:. The average Hb drop at 24 hours postop in group I was 3.08 gm/dl compared to 2.31 in group II. (p<0.001). 62 (19.6%) patients in group I required blood transfusion compared to 11 (3.2%) in group II. (p = 0.001) Perioperative blood loss and length of stay reduction was also significantly different. There was no increase in number of DVT/PE, but the sample size was too small to assess this statistically. Conclusion:. This protocol drastically reduces requirement of postoperative blood transfusion requirement helping in reducing the length of stay following hip replacements

Introduction. Allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT) remains a widely used therapeutic intervention in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). There is mounting evidence that tranexamic acid (TXA), a powerful antifibinolytic, can significantly reduce perioperative blood loss with a concomitant lower ABT rate. In May 2012, TXA intravenous infusion was introduced as standard therapy in all patients undergoing major hip and knee arthroplasty. The TXA protocol included infusing 1 gm prior to incision and 1 gm after lowering the tourniquet. Nadir hemoglobin (Hb) level has been shown to be the single most important predictor of ABT in patients undergoing TKA. It is often used as the main trigger for ABT and in research trials examining restrictive transfusion trials. There is a paucity of information regarding the impact of TXA on Hb levels in patients undergoing primary TKA. The purpose of this retrospective study was to examine the impact of TXA on hemoglobin levels in primary TKA patients. Methods. Patients undergoing primary single, or bilateral, TKA from a single orthopedic surgeon from the years 2009–2010 before TXA infusion (n=78) were compared to patients undergoing the same operation after TXA was introduced as a therapeutic intervention (n=97). TKA is a very standardized operation that has stayed consistent over the convening years in terms of surgical technique and intra-operative management. The following Hb values were selected for analysis between the two groups: pre-surgical Hb value, immediate post-operative Hb, nadir Hb, and discharge Hb. Paired t-test was used for analysis with p-value set at 0.05. Additional data analysis included: length of stay (LOS) and rate of ABT. Results. Demographically, the control group was younger compared to the experimental group (60 vs. 64 years). Table 1 shows the difference in the selected Hb values between the two groups. There was no difference in Hb values going into surgery between the two groups. For all other Hb values, there was a significant difference between the control group and the TXA group throughout the postoperative period. In addition, Hb drift was significantly lower in the TXA group compared to the control group by 0.7 g/dl. ABT rate was 4% for the TXA group and 50% for the control group. The control group had a higher LOS compared to the TXA, 4.9 vs. 4.3 days. Conclusion. TXA infusion in the intraoperative period is an effective therapeutic intervention for reducing the downward drift of Hb levels throughout the postoperative period in patients undergoing TKA, and in turn, significantly impacts ABT rate and resource utilization

Background. Intravenous and topical tranexamic acid (TXA) has become increasingly popular in total joint arthroplasty to decrease perioperative blood loss. In direct comparison, the outcomes and risks of either modality have been found to be equivalent. In addition, current literature has also demonstrated that topical TXA is safe and effective in the healthy population. To our knowledge, there is a scarcity of studies demonstrating the safety of topical TXA in high risk patient populations undergoing total joint arthroplasty or revision joint arthroplasty. The purpose of this study is to determine the safety of topical TXA in patients undergoing total or revision arthroplasty that are also on chronic anticoagulant or anti-platelet therapy. Methods. We performeded a retrospective review of patients undergoing primary and revision total hip or knee arthroplasties that received topical TXA (3g/100mL NS) from November 2012 to March 2015. All patients, regardless of co-morbidities, were included in the study population. Patients were divided into 3 groups:. Group 1: Patients without any antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy within 90 days of surgery. Group 2: Patients receiving antiplatelet therapy (Aspirin and/or Plavix) within 90 days of surgery. Group 3: Patients receiving anti-coagulant therapy within 90 days of surgery (low molecular weight heparin, unfractionated heparin, warfarin, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban). Chart review analyzing ICD-9 and ICD-10 coding was then utilized to establish any peri-operative complications within the 30 day post-operative period in all groups. Complications amongst the groups were evaluated via chi-squared testing as well as multivariate linear regression. Review of current literature and CMS protocols were used to establish reportable peri-operative complications. Wound infections, thromboembolic events and vascular complications such as myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, deep venous thrombosis, stroke, aortic dissection were included. Results. During the study period, a total 1471 total joint arthroplasties were performed on 1324 patients (88.7% knee arthroplasty, 11.3% hip arthroplasty). Group 1 included 1033 patients who were not on any prior anti-platelet or anticoagulant therapy. Group 2 included 254 patients receiving chronic antiplatelet therapy 90 days prior to surgery. Group 3 included 184 patients receiving chronic anticoagulant therapy 90 days prior to surgery. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups for any of the included peri-operative complications. The most common complication occurring amongst all the groups was superficial wound infection, which occurred in a total of 60 (4.1%) patients in contrast to 18 (1.2%) patients who sustained an acute deep peri-prosthetic infection. Twenty (1.4%) patients sustained an ultrasound proven deep vein thrombosis, with the highest prevalence occurring in those patients receiving no anticoagulation prior to surgery (15/20, 75%), however this was not statistically significant following linear regression analysis. Conclusions. To our knowledge, this is the first study that demonstrates that topical tranexamic acid is safe to use in so-called high risk patients who are being treated prior to surgery with anti-platelet or anti-coagulation therapy

Purpose. Hip arthroplasty is a good treatment option for displaced femoral neck fracture in elderly patients. However, neuromuscular disease such as cerebral infarction or hemorrhage can be a concerning problem for THA since dislocation after operation can frequently occur. The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the functional results of modified minimally invasive (MI) two-incision total hip arthroplasty (THA) with the use of large-diameter (>38mm) metal-on-metal articulation in patients with muscle weakness. Patients and Methods. 19 consecutive patients (19 hips) with displaced femoral neck fracture with muscle weakness were enrolled. There were 11 patients with cerebral infarction, 4 patients with cerebral hemorrhage and 4 patients with Parkinson's disease. In the lateral position, an anterolateral approach between the gluteus medius and tensor fascia lata and a posterior approach between the piriformis and gluteus medius were used. Surgical morbidity, functional recovery, radiological implantation properties, range of motion (ROM) and complications were assessed. Results. The mean operation time was 73.5 minutes and the average perioperative blood loss was 725.9cc. The mean head diameter used was 44 mm (38–50). The mean lateral opening angle of the acetabular component was 38.4°, the mean anteversion of the acetabular component was 16.4°, and the mean stem position was 0.3° valgus. The average postoperative ambulation time was 2.4 days. The mean Harris hip score was 81.0 at final follow-up, and the mean WOMAC score was 42.9. At final follow-up, there was no case of dislocation. There was no hypersensitivity, no osteolysis, and no revision. Conclusions. Our study suggests that the functional results of modified MI two-incision THA with the use of large-diameter metal on metal articulation in patients with muscle weakness can produce satisfactory early functional recovery and can reduce the dislocation rate

Purpose. This study was undertaken to assess the result of total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed for fused hips. Patients and Methods. Twenty nine patients (31 hips), aged 21 to 70 years (average 46 years), underwent THA conversion surgery and were followed for an average of 4.6 years (2.4-12.0 years). There were 23 cases of spontaneous fusion and 8 case of surgical fusion. The causes of joint fusion were tuberculosis in 6 hips, childhood coxitis in 13, ankylosing spondylitis in 6 and childhood trauma in 4. Modified two incision technique was used in 9 hips and in 22 hips, the surgery was performed through a posterolateral approach combined with anterior capsulotomy through gluteus medius and tensor fasica lata interval. In 1 case, greater trochanter osteotomy was done. All acetabular components were inserted at the true acetabulum and the articulations were metal on metal in 7 cases and ceramic on ceramic in 24 cases. Postoperatively, range of motion exercises were encouraged after 2 to 3 weeks of bed rest and subsequent weight bearing crutch ambulation. Then active exercises were strongly encouraged to stretch abductors. We evaluated the clinical and radiological results. Results. Mean duration of surgery was 178.6 minutes, and mean perioperative blood loss was 1420.1 ml. Post-operative dislocation occurred in 1 case and partial femoral nerve palsy developed in 1 case. Mean Harris Hip Score improved from 42.4 to 84.2 and mean leg lengthening of 36.6 mm was achieved. Sitting cross legged was possible in 15 patients and except 2 patients, all patients were satisfied with the surgery. On the radiologic evaluation, there was no changes in cup position and there was one case with acetabular focal osteolysis. Postoperative dislocation occurred in one case and there was no revision surgery or infection. Conclusion. Our study suggest that THA performed for fused hips with hard bearing articulation can provide good clinical and radiological results in mid-term follow up

Introduction:. Obesity is one of the biggest issues to harm health so as increase medical costs worldwide. Unfortunately, Japan is no exception. Under a big governmental campaign, obese rate in Japanese elderly begins to decrease very recently. However, we cannot help to have impression that our patients who undergo hip/knee replacement surgery have been getting heavier and heavier. The purpose of this study is to examine the change of body mass in our patients and find related factors. Patients and methods:. We reviewed hospital record of patients who underwent knee or hip replacement from January 1 to December 31 in 2004 or 2012. Patient who underwent either unicompartmental or total knee arthroplasty was included, however, those who went through femoral head replacement (hemiarthroplasty) was excluded from this study population. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from body height and weight measured within a week before surgery. Unlike in United States, BMI greater than 25 is categorized as obese, and below 18.5 is considered underweight in Japan. Additionally, gender, age at surgery, operated site (hip or knee), primary surgery or revision, blood loss in operation, surgery time, anesthesia time were evaluated as co-factors. Results:. Overall, 48 patients from 2004 and 107 patients from 2012 were included to the study population. We included patients with osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), avascular necrosis (AVN), high energy trauma, low energy trauma, and psoriatic arthritis (PSO). Mean age of patients was 66 years old in 2004, and 68 years old in 2012. Table 1 summarizes characteristics of subjects. Mean BMI of all patients in 2004 was significantly lower than the one in 2012 (23.7 vs. 25.8, p = 0.0019). Especially, BMI of patients underwent knee replacement because of OA in 2012 was significantly higher than those who went through the surgery in 2004 (p = 0.083: Table 2). Whereas, BMI of THA patient with hip OA in 2012 was not significantly higher than in 2004 (p = 0.15). Focus to OA, obese patient was 19% with hip OA and 36% with knee OA in 2004. In 2012, more than 50% of knee OA patients were obese while obese hip OA patients were a little less than half of THA participants (47%: Figure 1). Perioperative blood loss, surgery time and anesthesia time showed significant decrease from 2004 to 2012. Discussion:. Thanks to the great progress of biological treatment on RA, we perform less knee/hip replacement surgery among RA patients, and then majority of operated patients is now affected by osteoarthritis. According to a Japanese official report, obese rate of women age 40 to 69 was decreased to 23% in 2011 comparing to 24.6% in 2004. Regarding to Japanese age 70 and above, obesity rate is around 26% in both men and women, far lower than our study population of OA patients. In conclusion, BMI of our patients who underwent knee/hip replacement surgery became significantly higher during eight years and nearly half of operated knee/hip OA patients were obese last year